Forging New Ties: InnoForge Ventures Visits SMU IIE

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As part of our ongoing efforts to connect with local innovation ecosystems, the team at Innoforge Ventures, comprising of Darrel Chua (Managing Partner) and Ray Chong (Intern), had the privilege of visiting the Institute of Innovation & Entrepreneurship (IIE) at Singapore Management University (SMU), one of Singapore’s top local universities and a rising hub for entrepreneurial talent in the region.

A Closer Look At IIE’s Impact and Innovation Programmes

The IIE team has been actively nurturing a vibrant culture of innovation and facilitating entrepreneurship within the SMU community. From pitch competitions and innovation challenges like the Lee Kuan Yew Global Business Plan Competition to international exposure programs and incubator support, SMU IIE has consistently championed student founders.

Their impact is evident in the numbers: since its inception, SMU IIE has incubated over 500 startups under its flagship Business Innovations Generator (BIG) program. These startups, including standout names such as Homage, SolanaFM, and RainMaker Labs, have gone on to raise over S$750 million.

Our visit offered meaningful insight into the values and operational strengths that power IIE’s programming, particularly its emphasis on hands-on experience, founder mentorship, and long-term support beyond graduation.

Exploring Areas of Collaboration

As a Singapore-based deep tech incubator and early-stage venture firm, InnoForge Ventures is dedicated to cultivating talent and bridging ecosystems. Our visit to SMU IIE reinforced our shared commitment to nurturing entrepreneurial talent. We look forward to partnering with SMU IIE to support student founders and build a globally connected, innovation-driven future.

We see strong potential to contribute in the following areas:

  • Funding & Mentorship: Supporting promising SMU student and alumni startups with early-stage capital and strategic guidance.
  • Overseas Internship Opportunities: Leveraging our network in China, particularly in Chengdu, to help students gain international startup experience.
  • Community Building & Events: Co-hosting innovation-focused events and connecting students with Singapore’s broader deep tech and venture ecosystem.
Three people standing in front of a colorful wall at the Singapore Management University Institute of Innovation & Entrepreneurship (SMU IIE); from left to right: Darrel (Innoforge Managing Partner), Sze Hui (IIE staff), and Ray (Innoforge intern). The wall showcases entrepreneurship support programs and student achievements.
Innoforge team members visiting the SMU Institute of Innovation & Entrepreneurship (IIE). From left to right: Darrel Chua (Managing Partner, Innoforge Ventures), Lim Sze Hui (Senior Manager, IIE), and Ray Chong (Intern, Innoforge Ventures).